A FORMER library in North Yorkshire at the heart of a row about its future use was the subject of a day-long exhibition.

The council-owned building in Kirkbymoorside has been vacant since North Yorkshire County Council moved its library service to Church House.

Its fate remains undecided in the wake of protests over the town council’s bid to spend £175,000 on converting it into council offices and a meeting room.

Following several public meetings, and the resignation of four local councillors over the issue, a group has been set up to explore the Church Street building’s possible future use.

An exhibition has invited residents and organisations to put forward ideas.

Architect John Paul said the exhibition at Kirkbymoorside Memorial Hall aimed “to give a sense of direction” on ways the building could be used.

He believed the town council offices could be accommodated on a mezzanine floor in the building which could also house a gallery, a centre for performing arts and an area for visiting artists, writers, musicians and others.

He has drawn up plans which would enable the building to be brought back to use without a lift , as the town council planned.

Mr Paul said he had already spoken to organisations such as Ryedale District Council, North York Moors National Park Authority and Ryedale Folk Museum, which had all been supportive.

Mr Paul believed his ideas would cost at least a third less than the town council’s £175,000 scheme, and that some of the work could be done using local expertise.

Also promoting schemes for the building was artist Sue Wright, who said: “My idea is that the library could become a practical working space for artists and craft workers such as spinners and weavers. It could have a universal use.”

Once more concrete plans have been developed they will be put to the advisory group and ultimately the town council.